Martin O'Neill has backed controversial proposals that would mean his former club Celtic and rivals Rangers becoming part of a revamped English Premier League.

The league are due to discuss the possibility of extending to two divisions – including the two Scottish giants – during the summer. Aston Villa boss O'Neill believes the duo would become "monumental players" if they decide to move south.

"My personal thought is that Celtic and Rangers would enhance the Premier League," said O'Neill. "Glasgow is a phenomenal football city. Celtic house 60,000 fans and Rangers house 50,000 fans every game. I'm not sure about Rangers but I know Celtic's capacity could go from 60,000 to 80,000 overnight, without a doubt.

"When I was manager a number of years ago, there was some talk of both teams joining the Premier League in some capacity. There was mention of them being put in the Championship too, or maybe even lower down than that, and then making them work their way up through promotion.

"If forced to do that they would eventually get to the top and end up as monumental players in the Premier League. Of course, the sceptics would say 'Why do it?' But I'm talking about enhancement."

The proposals are likely to face serious opposition and O'Neill conceded: "I suppose Belgian teams could then ask to join the Dutch league and Dutch teams could then request to join the Bundesliga. All of those points would have to be considered. But, if you're asking for a personal opinion, I think Celtic and Rangers joining would enhance the Barclays Premier League and make us all strive to get better. That's my view.

"There are processes that would to have observed obviously. It was spoken about a few seasons ago and obstacles were put in the way. The idea died at that time and I don't know how strong the possibility is at the moment. I certainly support the idea. But, then again, I could be a voice in the wilderness."